A Conversation with U.S. Olympic Archer Brady Ellison

Archery isn't a sport commonly discussed at water coolers on a Monday morning, but it has become more popular within the United States thanks to its introduction into popular culture via blockbuster movie franchises such as The Hunger Games and The Avengers.

For Brady Ellison, it was hunting, not heroism, that drew his attention to the discipline that requires incredible skill and hand-eye coordination. Now approaching his third Olympic games, the silver medalist from 2012 is focused on winning the gold medal this time around, but thanks to his faith in God, he's not nervous amid the opportunity.

In this conversation, Ellison talks about how he got into archery, what drives him to compete, and how his favorite Bible verse helps him keep everything in perspective:

Chad Bonham: At what point in your life did you decide to pursue your Olympic dream?

Brady Ellison: I started training full time for the Olympics in January of 2006.

Bonham: How did you get into archery and what about the sport do you most appreciate and enjoy?

Ellison: I got into the sport through hunting. I think it is a beautiful sport to watch when done right. I like the level of precision it takes to be at the top.

Bonham: What are some key principles that you’ve relied upon throughout your Olympic pursuit?

Ellison: Having the will to keep driving no matter what and knowing that God and my family are behind me supporting me no matter how I do.

Bonham: How did you become a Christian?

Ellison: I accepted Jesus into my heart when I was little. I never knew what that meant. I believe that God saved me from dying in a horrible car accident in Vermont, and from there I started to take my faith a little more serious. I met a man named Jansen Asbill and he really opened my eyes to the Lord.

Bonham: How has your faith in God specifically helped you deal with the challenges you’ve faced as an Olympian?

Ellison: Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Once I put winning in God’s hands, I stopped worrying about that. I just went to tournaments and shot with no fear, doing only the best I can do and leaving the rest up to God.

Pick up Chad's book Glory of the Games, featuring inspiring stories from 17 Olympic athletes (past and present) such as Shannon Miller, Tobin Heath, Laura Wilkinson, Josh Davis, Michael Chang, and Kevin Durant, by clicking HERE.

 

Photos courtesy of USA Olympic Team and USA Archery.